A 16-year-old Theodore High School student who spent two years fighting cancer was surprised Tuesday with his first vehicle, a gift from three local organizations that have supported him through his recovery.
Cody Scott was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma at age 14. During his treatment, he found support through the Baller Dream Foundation, a local nonprofit that assists young people battling cancer from birth through age 29. On Tuesday, the foundation joined 68 Ventures and Tameron Gulf Coast to present Scott with a Nissan Frontier.
“Instead of calling them patients we called them ballers, and Cody Scott here is a part of our ballerhood,” said Frank DeBlasi, founder of the Baller Dream Foundation.
The gift traces back to Ballin’ on Belrose, the foundation’s annual fundraiser presented by 68 Ventures. Scott took part in this year’s event in May, which drew more than 550 runners and raised $100,000 to support young cancer patients. That fundraising, combined with a contribution from Tameron Gulf Coast, made the vehicle gift possible.
“Anytime we can give back in any meaningful way we love to do that and we try to do that,” said Bryan Breakfield, chief operating officer and part owner of Tameron Gulf Coast.
Scott said he had no idea what awaited him when he arrived at the surprise.
“I feel great, everyone at Baller Dream I really appreciate them, it’s a great gift,” Scott said. “I knew we were driving here for something but I didn’t know what. I think it looks great, I feel the best I’ve felt in my life to be honest.”
Organizers said the surprise reflects the Baller Dream Foundation’s broader mission of bringing hope and encouragement to young people facing cancer, long after their treatment has ended.